In a recent virtual news conference, officials from the city of Atlanta and various agencies announced that they have successfully secured housing options for 14 individuals currently residing in a local encampment.
Cathryn Vassell, the chief executive of Partners for HOME, the organization responsible for coordinating the city’s homeless strategy, did not provide immediate information regarding how many of the 14 individuals have accepted the housing offers. A spokesperson noted that some of the offers are still being extended.
Most of the individuals have been offered units at Welcome House, a permanent supportive housing program located in downtown Atlanta. Vassell explained that the Welcome House is prepared to provide flexible lease terms, operating akin to permanent supportive housing units.
Vassell further mentioned that if any individuals choose not to accept the housing offers, short-term shelter will be available as they pursue other housing solutions. The city is committed to making another offer down the line as additional housing options become available.
This announcement comes amid rising scrutiny of the city’s approach to homelessness, especially after the death of Cornelius Taylor, who was tragically crushed during an eviction of a homeless encampment.
At a separate news conference, the Justice for Cornelius Taylor Coalition voiced their frustration outside Atlanta City Hall. Organizer Tim Franzen criticized the current strategy as a “Whac-A-Mole” approach, stating that the temporary housing solutions often lead individuals back to the streets shortly after being displaced.
Franzen underscored the growing homeless population in Atlanta and argued that the existing strategies are insufficient to address the crisis.
“Cornelius was not just crushed by a bulldozer,” Franzen asserted. “He was crushed by failed city policy—decades of failed city policy.”
Lolita Griffeth, Taylor’s fiancée and long-time partner, expressed her hope for a change in Atlanta’s homeless policy following his tragic death. Advocate Nolan English suggested that the upcoming FIFA World Cup has prompted increased efforts to clear the streets of homeless encampments, alleging a connection between the two events.
“You don’t have to connect the dots,” English remarked. “We know what the hurry up and cleanup is about.”
Despite these concerns, Chatiqua Ellison, interim senior adviser to Mayor Andre Dickens on housing issues, and Atlanta Police Maj. Jeff Cantin clarified that the planned closure of the Old Wheat Street encampment is not linked to the FIFA World Cup matches set to take place in Atlanta next summer. According to Cantin, efforts to address homelessness began well before the tournament’s announcement.
Ellison highlighted that a dedicated case manager will be assigned to work with residents of the Old Wheat Street camp who accept the housing offers. “Everyone deserves access to housing and essential services,” she remarked, adding that the residents they have spoken with express a desire to find indoor accommodations.
Prior to the planned closure of the Old Wheat Street camp, signage informing residents about the timeline was posted at the location at least 15 days in advance. Outreach teams have been actively engaging with the 14 residents for several months, assessing their specific needs regarding housing, employment, and public benefits while assisting them with necessary documentation.
Ellison also emphasized that the clearing of the Old Wheat Street camp will be carried out following safety measures recommended by a homelessness response task force established in the wake of Taylor’s death.
As police prepare for the closure on Thursday, Cantin stated that individuals attempting to return after the area is cleared will be redirected to resources, with further enforcement actions possible if necessary. Signage at the camp will be updated to reflect the city ordinance that prohibits urban camping.
image source from：ajc
